Bring at least two pairs of snowboard gloves: a mid-warmth glove for most days and a heavier, waterproof-insulated glove for very cold or wet conditions. Consider mittens for extra warmth. Prioritize fit, breathability, reinforced palms, gauntlets that seal with your jacket, and modern features like touchscreen compatibility and pre-curved fingers. Test gloves with liners to ensure dexterity before you buy.
Why good snowboard gloves matter
A great day on the mountain can be ruined by cold, wet hands. Snowboard gloves or mittens protect your fingers, help you adjust gear, and keep you riding comfortably all day.Carry at least two pairs
Plan to bring at least two pairs for a week of riding. I prefer two slightly different pairs: a mid-warmth glove for most days and a heavier pair for very cold or wet conditions. That gives you flexibility when temperatures or snow conditions change.Mid-warmth gloves: the everyday choice
Mid-warmth gloves work well on average days. They usually have a slim profile with fleece or synthetic insulation such as PrimaLoft or Thinsulate, which keep heat without bulk. Look for articulated or pre-curved fingers so you can handle buckles, zippers, and your phone without removing gloves.Consider gloves with a gauntlet (long cuff) that seals over your jacket sleeve. A wrist leash or clip is useful on chairlifts so you can remove a glove without losing it.
For extra warmth on very cold days, wear a thin liner glove underneath. Silk and synthetic liners both add insulation while keeping dexterity; merino liners are a warmer, odor-resistant option.
Heavy-duty gloves for sub-zero or wet days
For cold, wet, or extended backcountry use, choose a heavier glove with robust insulation and a reliable waterproof-breathable membrane. Gore-Tex and similar membranes are common in high-end gloves; many gloves pair that membrane with synthetic insulation and reinforced leather palms for durability and grip.These gloves often have a longer gauntlet you can wear over or inside your jacket, stronger closures at the wrist, and abrasion-resistant materials on contact points.
Mittens as an option
Mittens put fingers together and usually provide better warmth than gloves for very cold conditions. Many brands sell both mitten and glove versions with similar technologies, so pick the style that balances warmth and dexterity for your needs.Modern features to consider
- Waterproof-breathable membrane (Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar)
- Synthetic insulations (PrimaLoft, Thinsulate)
- Reinforced or leather palms for grip and durability
- Long gauntlets and adjustable wrist closures
- Touchscreen-compatible fingertips
- Pre-curved fingers for easier movement
- Nose wipe or soft face wipe on the thumb